DISPLAYING PHOTOGRAPHIC PRINTS

Environment

All light gradually destroys all photographs, no matter how they were produced: silver gelatin, digital, or some other method. It's just the way it is. But few of us really want to lock a photograph away in complete darkness so that it will last forever. Most of us buy art so that we can display it, and enjoy it during our lifetimes.

In order to maximize the life of a photograph, there are a few simple things that should be kept in mind:

• If you are matting and framing the print, use only acid-free, archival materials. For the photographs I sell, I use only acid-free mat board and backing board, as well as archival tape that is used to hinge the photograph and the overmat to the backing board.
• Frame your photographs and then display them in a low-humidity environment. Never display any photograph in direct sunlight or fluorescent light. Although all light is damaging to a photograph, these two types of lighting are most damaging.
• When handling prints, avoid touching the surface of the picture. Even if your hands are absolutely clean, the oil from your fingers can leave prints. I ship photographs in acid-free plastic sleeves, which will help to protect your photograph and the overmat from damage, fingerprints, etc. until it is framed.